HTTP connector and the Connector SDK

Workato provides the following options to enable you to build your own connector:

• HTTP connector: Allows you to make API requests using a visual interface
• Connector SDK: Provides programmatic control over connector behavior and advanced customization options

The Connector SDK supports advanced customization and works best for users with development experience. You can use the Connector Copilot to generate code, explore examples, and streamline development.

This document describes the differences between these options and helps you determine the best approach for your connector development.

Authentication methods

APIs use a range of authentication mechanisms, from basic authentication (username and password) to more complex methods like OAuth 2.0.

The HTTP connector and the Connector SDK support the following authentication methods:

Authentication method	HTTP	SDK
OAuth 1.0	❌	✔
OAuth 2.0	✔	✔
Basic auth	✔	✔
Plain API key/token	✔	✔
Digest auth	❌	✔
Multi-step auth	❌	✔

Data types

The HTTP connector and the Connector SDK support the following data types:

Data type	HTTP	SDK
JSON on REST	✔	✔
XML on REST	✔	✔
URL encoded Form	✔	✔
Multipart form	✔	✔
Binary	✔	✔

Capabilities

The HTTP connector and the Connector SDK offer the following capabilities:

Capability	HTTP	SDK
Trigger closure	❌	✔
Updated record trigger	Sometimes	✔
Webhook + poll trigger	❌	✔
Data transformation	❌	✔
Data pre/post processing	❌	✔
Pagination	❌	✔
While loop	✔	✔
For loop	✔	✔

Additional functionality

The HTTP connector and the Connector SDK have the following additional functionality:

Functionality	HTTP	SDK
Sharing	✔	✔
Clone and run recipes	✔	❌
Reusable (cross recipe)	❌	✔
Manual webhook	✔	✔
Auto webhook	Can cause issues	✔